Draft season is officially on. Landon DuPont has separated himself as the top prospect heading into next June's NHL draft after an impressive Hlinka Gretzky Cup showing. The tournament delivered a first real look at the next wave of elite talent, and scouts are locking in their evaluations now.
DuPont's performance against top international competition established him as the clear frontrunner for whoever lands the first overall pick. The skater's combination of skill and compete level stood out in a loaded prospect class. Other names will emerge over the season, but DuPont has set the bar early.
Teams sitting at the bottom of the standings have two objectives now. Win enough games to stay competitive while simultaneously eyeing June and these incoming prospects. The draft class shapes franchise direction for the next half-decade, so getting the evaluation right matters. DuPont's ceiling looks legitimate, which explains his immediate leap to the top of rankings.
Watch lists will shift as the season unfolds. Prospects will have breakout months or disappoint in January. Injuries will sideline contenders. But DuPont has already made his statement. Every scout will be tracking him closely from October through April.